Biological Actions of Nerve Growth Factor in the Peripheral Nervous System

Abstract

Since the discovery of nerve growth factor (NGF), its role in the physiology/pathophysiology of nerve function has been under intense investigation. More recently, the potential of recombinant human NGF (rhNGF) as a putative treatment for peripheral neuropathies, in particular diabetic polyneuropathy and HIV-associated sensory neuropathy, is being explored. In animal models of diabetes, depletion of endogenous NGF levels has been demonstrated in foot skin and skeletal muscle; these levels reduce further with increasing disease duration. Preclinical studies in animal models of diabetes have shown that administration of NGF can reverse or alleviate impairment in nerve function.

The role of growth factors in nerve regeneration

“…The explanation about the neurotrophic factors especially functions and roles of them in the nervous system has still been increasing including embryonic and postnatal development after injury. There are many studies mention main aims of neurotrophic factor researches involved in developmental roles, plasticity in the central nervous system, and mechanisms of injury and signal transduction (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8). The objective of this review is to give an overview of neurotrophic factors and emphasize importance of what we know about the functional mechanisms by which neurotrophic factors reveal their effects from an injury response window, including axonal growth and regeneration.…”

AIDS and AIDS-treatment neuropathies

“…Ample laboratory data and studies of animal models point to rhNGF as a potential treatment for peripheral neuropathy, in particular diabetic and HIV-related neuropathies [49].…”

AIDS and AIDS-treatment neuropathies

“…Ample laboratory data and studies of animal models point to rhNGF as a potential treatment for peripheral neuropathy, in particular diabetic and HIV-related neuropathies [49]. Ample laboratory data and studies of animal models point to rhNGF as a potential treatment for peripheral neuropathy, in particular diabetic and HIV-related neuropathies [49].…”